A Conversation with Matt Wertz + Concert Review & Photos

It would have been really fun to make a pun about Matt Wertz bringing a literal heat wave to Phoenix, but in reality I’m kinda glad the weather stayed under 100 degrees. After some laughs and a good chat (check out the video above) with Matt, it was time for a great show. With an intimate crowd, Matt and his band spent a little over an hour entertaining the room of varying ages with music and some more laughs.

Having just released Heatwave two weeks ago, Matt had a large database of songs to choose from. In the end, he was able to put together a setlist that pleased everyone in the room. From new songs to some old classics, each was delivered with the love and passion with which it was written. The Musical Instrument Museum provided a gorgeous backdrop to some great music and Matt joked about how it was too nice for him, going so far as to remark on the fact that he got to play on carpet.

I think some of my favorite moments at concerts like these are when the artist and their band completely unplug, and those moments are even better when the entire crowd sings along. It creates something special that truly can’t be explained without having been a part of it before. This and more happened when Matt sang “5.19” which proceeded into a cover of Michael Jackson’s “Man In The Mirror” and Katy Perry’s “Roar.” Then, the night ended with a campfire-esq singalong to “Sing My Lonesome Away” leaving everyone walking away with a smile on their face.

Following the show, Matt hung around to meet and chat with anyone who wanted to say hi, taking the time to get to know them and make sure the concert was what they hoped it would be. Each and every person at the show left with a new memory that will last a lifetime.

More Photos

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